Getting Started
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Therapy can be helpful if you're struggling with anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, trauma, or simply feeling stuck. You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy.
What can I expect during the first session?
The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. We'll discuss what brings you to therapy, your goals, relevant history, and any questions you may have. Together, we'll determine the best path forward.
How often will we meet?
Most clients begin with weekly sessions. As progress is made, some choose to transition to biweekly or maintenance sessions.
EMDR Questions
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that helps people process and heal from traumatic or distressing experiences that continue to affect their lives.
Do I have to talk about every detail of my trauma?
No. Unlike some traditional approaches, EMDR does not require extensive discussion of traumatic events in order to be effective.
Is EMDR effective for anxiety and relationship issues?
Yes. Many anxiety symptoms, relationship patterns, and negative beliefs about oneself can be linked to past experiences that EMDR can help process and resolve.
Will EMDR make me relive traumatic experiences?
EMDR involves briefly focusing on difficult memories, but the goal is to help those memories become less emotionally overwhelming over time. The process is conducted at a pace that feels manageable and safe.
Logistics
Do you offer in-person or virtual therapy?
I offer both in person sessions and virtual Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm
What are your fees?
My fee is $170 initial assessment session, $160 for individual therapy session, $200 couples/marriage therapy session
Do you accept insurance?
I accept Kaiser Carelon and Sutter Carelon insurance
Do you provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement?
Yes I can provide a superbill to any client who is paying privately and wants to submit for reimbursement to your PPO insurance plan.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Credit cards, HSA/FSA, venmo, cash, check
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask for 24 hour notice to cancel or reschedule a previously scheduled therapy appointment
About the Therapeutic Relationship
How long does therapy take?
The length of therapy varies depending on your goals, history, and the concerns you're addressing. Some clients benefit from short-term therapy, while others choose longer-term support.
What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't help?
Not all therapy experiences are the same. The relationship with your therapist, the approach used, and timing can all influence outcomes. Many clients who felt stuck in previous therapy find new progress with a different therapeutic approach.
What makes your approach different?
I integrate EMDR, attachment-focused therapy, and evidence-based approaches to help clients heal not only symptoms but the underlying experiences that contribute to anxiety, relationship struggles, and emotional pain.
Can EMDR help after a breakup, divorce, or betrayal?
Yes. Significant relationship losses and betrayals can create symptoms similar to trauma, including intrusive thoughts, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, and difficulty moving forward. EMDR can help process these experiences and reduce their emotional impact.
Why do I keep repeating the same relationship patterns?
Often, current relationship dynamics are influenced by earlier experiences, attachment patterns, and beliefs formed about ourselves and others. Therapy can help identify and change these patterns.
Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?
No. Many people seek therapy for personal growth, relationship concerns, life transitions, or emotional support without having a mental health diagnosis.